Herbert Smith Freehills has strengthened its Asia-Pacific corporate M&A practice with the appointment of Damien Roberts in Tokyo and Ian Williams in Brisbane.

Roberts, who has been in Tokyo since 2011, focuses on energy and mining-related M&A work, and will work closely with Graeme Preston, Herbert Smith Freehills’ Tokyo corporate practice head, and Andy Blacoe, head of the energy, infrastructure and mining practice.

Williams specialises in M&A and joint ventures, particularly in the energy, resources, infrastructure and industrial sectors.

Both Roberts and Williams join Herbert Smith Freehills from Ashurst, where they were partners.

“The coming months will be an exciting period for our corporate group in Tokyo, with plans in the works to significantly boost our team on the ground,” said Herbert Smith Freehills’ Tokyo managing partner, Peter Godwin, in a statement.

“We have been operating in Tokyo for 14 years, and are committed to maintaining our position as one of the most successful international firms in the Japanese market.”